Monochroa lucidella

Wingspan 12 to14 mm.

Found in damp habitats, especially around Common spike-rush, the larval foodplant.

The adult moths emerge in June and July and may be seen flying in late afternoon around the foodplants.

The eggs of this species are laid on Common spike-rush, with the larva emerging to feed in the stem.

Widespread throughout most of England and Wales, but local in distribution. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as local.

It appears to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland, where there are few records. L&R Moth Group status = D (rare or rarely recorded).